(And that’s even with the requisite number of 5-star shill reviews – some, perhaps, with a profit motive…)

And some private company will end up making millions off of this program what costs us tens of millions of dollars, oh well. And this is the same company what profits handsomely when people, including lots of tourists from all over the world with perhaps not the best handle on English, interpret phrases like FREE RIDE DAY as a FREE RIDE DAY or RIDE ALL DAY FOR $9 as RIDE ALL DAY FOR $9, but then end up getting charged $68.50 or whatever instead of the $9.

(My problem is that the minimum charge to pedal one of these expensive yet heavy rides around the block just to see what it’s like is $9.)

Taking advantage of the promotion is easy. Register here (or at right) to receive a free 24-hour pass code by email. Then, on Friday, November 20, use that code at any Bay Area Bike Share station. The 24-hour pass, typically $9, will cost nothing thanks to Target and Instacart.

A credit or debit card is required as usage fees still will apply to all trips over 30 minutes. Riders can choose to take multiple rides during the 24-hour period simply by going to the kiosk and selecting “Request a New Ride Code”.